Belgium's annual 'Domingo sin coches' reached its largest scale yet this Sunday, with more than seventy towns closing streets to cars. For the first time, the event extended into Wallonia, turning city centers and neighborhoods into open spaces for people, not vehicles.
Organizers say the rise in numbers is no accident. Els Van den Broeck, director of Mobiel 21, called the day a chance for people to "experience immediately how much safer, fresher and healthier a street without traffic is," and picture a future where this is normal, not rare. Brussels Times reported that this year broke the previous record of 53 towns, thanks in large part to 22 Walloon communes joining in.
Most cars were kept out of participating towns during the day. Only public transport, taxis and emergency vehicles could get through. Each town set its own hours, but the change was clear: streets usually packed with cars and exhaust filled with markets and performances, while families walked or rode bikes. VRT NWS reported that more towns are joining each year, a sign that the event has become part of Belgian civic life.
For many, the change felt tangible. Elena, a young Spaniard living in Brussels, said she felt a "sense of freedom" as she biked on roads usually closed to her. She saw neighbors bringing tables outside and friends and families walking. Food stalls and second-hand markets drew crowds of all ages.
Wallonia's involvement in European Mobility Week made the difference in surpassing the previous record of 53 towns. Local media confirmed that more than seventy towns took part. The turnout suggests more people want to rethink how cities use their streets and public spaces.
Van den Broeck pointed out that more towns, especially in Wallonia, are putting money and effort into the event. 'Domingo sin coches' is now a regular part of life across Belgium. The event reflects broader European trends, including the rise of alternative transport and new ways of using city space, as seen recently in Spain's Aragón region.
Belgium's record turnout this year shows people want to take back their streets, even if just for a day. The success of 'Domingo sin coches' points to growing support for city life that is safer, healthier and more social. As more towns join in, the event is no longer a novelty; it's a sign that Belgians, and perhaps other Europeans, are rethinking what their cities could be.
